TaxCut is broken down into two different tax filing methods. The first is a free-form, fill-out-your-own form and let the computer calculate method. The second method uses the interview process, in which the application queries your financial situation and a return is compiled. This reviewer is a fan of the first mode of desktop filing, but both components function equally well. Each aspect of the tax return process is broken down into a video tutorial. Every question that is queried by the program in interview mode leads you down a different road and the software offers up some good tax suggestions -- such as the consideration of write-offs for freelance writers, for instance. This is a smart program that does not leave its users in the cold if they are not knowledgeable about the tax process. All of the entries and answers are entered into the return in real-time, meaning a window in the top left corner updates with the net result. Kiplinger leaves you with trying one option or the other, however, and the free-form area could use some work. Brave users fending the harsh climes of the do-it-yourself method could be left compiling an ignorant return. Also, the forms are not always available in an intuitive manner. If you are looking to jump from one form to another, the jump may not always be clear and obvious. There are plenty of on-screen options that could lead you astray. The bottom line, however, is that TaxCut Deluxe delivers a lot for an attractive price. The program boasts an array of tax extras including a solid import engine for old returns by a handful of other programs, free electronic filing, both federal and state returns (for all states that have income tax), as well as an audit component that assures no mistakes were made in data entry along the way. That's a lot of functionality for $39.95 US. Reviewer's rating: 4 / 5 Comments: TaxCut Deluxe is a competitive program for completing U.S. tax returns, with plenty of bells and whistles at an incredibly low price. Minimum system requirements: For PCs, need 486 processor or higher, 8MB RAM, 20MB hard disk space, Windows 3.1 or Windows 95, double-speed CD ROM drive or faster, SVGA monitor, Windows compatible printer. For Macs, need 68030 processor, 8MB RAM (16MB for PCI-based Macs), OS 7.1, double-speed CD ROM drive or faster, 13-inch 256 color monitor, Macintosh compatible printer. More info: http://www.taxcut.com Price: $39.95 US   
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